How Leny Yoro fared on Man Utd debut after Liverpool failed to move for $68m transfer

Leny Yoro has expressed his gratitude to Manchester United’s coaching staff for making him “feel comfortable” during his debut. The teenager was impressive during Saturday’s 2-0 win over Rangers at Murrayfield Stadium.

Just two days after sealing his move from Lille to Old Trafford, the 18-year-old was named in the starting line-up for the pre-season friendly win against the Scottish heavyweights. Yoro played alongside Jonny Evans at centre-back and logged 45 minutes of action.

With Evans by his side providing experience and support, the French defender showed his skills with confident distribution and some accurate passing. He also made some outstanding defensive plays that contributed to United’s free-flow.

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Despite the usual disclaimers about pre-season games, Yoro’s debut was seen as promising by Manchester United. After training with the team for the first time on Friday, he relished the chance to play and appreciated the warm welcome and support from both his teammates and the coaching staff.

Yoro said, via the Manchester Evening News: “Yes, of course, my team-mates have helped me a lot and the staff have made me feel comfortable on the pitch. We are together, so for me, it is very good.”

Yoro has been in the spotlight ahead of the game after news emerged on Saturday morning that he was part of the 26-man squad heading to Edinburgh. In his first game after signing for a fee of approx $68m (£52m/€62m)he reflected: “For me, it was unbelievable. It was a very good game from the team and I’m happy with my performance. I hope we can continue like this.”

Manchester United are gearing up for their pre-season tour of the United States, with the squad set to take off on Wednesday. Like Liverpool, they will face Real Betis and Arsenal.

“Of course we go to America on Wednesday and we will have three competitive games,” Yoro said. “The fans will be there, I know, and the team will give everything to win those games.”

Liverpool.com says: Yoro looks like a real talent and he can’t hide it. However, he chose Manchester United in the end and Liverpool will have to look elsewhere.

It is understandable that the Reds would not want to come close to the wage package offered by the Old Trafford side and could not offer the same guarantee of minutes. However, Arne Slot’s side should not risk not signing an alternative. Finding someone else to step in could be vital in shaping how the Dutch coach’s first season in charge plays out.